The B.C. government has tabled Bill 44, the Housing and Municipal Affairs Statutes Amendment Act, 2025, aimed at tackling the housing crisis by increasing small-scale housing and tightening short-term rental regulations.
If passed, the bill will amend both the Local Government Act and Vancouver Charter to ensure all communities over 5,000 people—especially those within urban containment boundaries—allow a range of small-scale, multi-unit housing like triplexes, rowhomes, and townhouses. The legislation will also prevent local governments from imposing unnecessary restrictions or excessive parking requirements that limit new housing development.
The Province says the move will help remove zoning barriers that slow down the creation of diverse housing options.
Bill 44 also includes significant changes to the Short-Term Rental Accommodations Act. These amendments aim to:
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Clarify the definition of “principal residence”
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Streamline the review process for penalties and registration
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Improve government information-sharing
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Strengthen enforcement with new tools, including public posting of non-compliance and penalties for false registration
Additionally, the bill would allow Modern Treaty Nations, such as Tsawwassen First Nation, to adopt the short-term rental rules through coordination agreements, expanding the legislation’s reach.
The changes align with the Province’s broader housing strategy to make homes more accessible and ensure properties are used for long-term housing, not speculation.
Bill 44 was introduced to the Legislative Assembly on Thursday, October 9, 2025, and will take effect upon receiving royal assent.
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